Launched in 2011, The Bard’s Not That Hard is the perfect way to introduce, or rediscover, the inspiring world of William Shakespeare. Together we'll explore why his remarkable plays are still being performed 400 years on.

Delivered by theatre professionals, GSC’s practical evening classes are designed to help you discover The Bard in a fun and supportive environment. Together, we explore Shakespeare’s great plays through close reading, group discussion and practical exercises in our professional rehearsal room.

“We look at Shakespeare’s choice of words, their sound, their order on the page and the visual images created – this helps create a deeper understanding of the work and also gives you an insight and appreciation into Shakespeare’s skill as a writer.” Class Member

The Bard's Not That Hard meet on a Tuesday evening, 7pm - 9pm, in the rehearsal room at GSC HQ. No experience of Shakespeare or acting necessary and all ages welcome. This is not an acting class but there will be tea and biscuits!

“I am able to appreciate and enjoy productions of Shakespeare better.” Class Member

Autumn Term: Richard III

11 September – 27 November (HT: 16 & 23 Oct; no class) (10 week term)

Richard III is one of Shakespeare’s most-enduring plays. Witness the rise of Richard, fresh from the Wars of the Roses, as he schemes his way to the throne, before his historic downfall.

Spaces are strictly limited, so apply now to avoid disappointment. Simply fill in the online form below and pay the deposit to secure your place.

Apply online

Course Fee: £160

Join Guildford’s award-winning professional theatre company for GSC Stages, a new programme of exciting evening courses for anyone interested in furthering their knowledge of theatre-making.

GSC Stages is split into short courses, with each one led by a different practitioner, within GSC’s professional rehearsal room. Over 12 years, GSC has worked with a variety of creatives and practitioners - including directors, actors, producers and designers – and for  the first time course members will be able to learn from their unique and practical masterclasses on theatre skills.

Each course can be joined separately, allowing members to gain a selection of professional insights and explore a variety of techniques through individual and group exercises. All ages and levels of experience are welcome and refreshments will be provided.

GSC Stages: Approaching Shakespeare with Director Richard Neale

05 Nov – 10 Dec, Mondays 7-9pm

Over six weeks you will work with Richard Neale, director of GSC’s Robin Hood and acting teacher at GSA. Under Richard's expert guidance, you will unlock Shakespeare’s verse and prose, demystify the complex language and discover clues in the text. This practical course uses rehearsal room techniques and physical exploration to take you on the journey from page to stage.

More details on the course-leader: Richard trained as an actor at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. His acting credits span theatre, film TV and radio. He is an Associate Board member of Actors from the London Stage and teaches full time at The Guildford School of Acting, where he sits on audition panels. He’s also a tutor and panellist for Open Door. He directed Robin Hood for GSC, as well as staged-readings of Pericles and Cymbeline.

Apply online

Course Fee: £120